For many older adults, pets are more than just companions — they’re family. A dog that encourages daily walks, a cat that curls up for warmth, or even a bird whose chirps the same song every morning offers a consistent routine of comfort. Animals can provide emotional support, structure, and purpose to everyday life.
A 2025 study by the University of Michigan found that 83% of pet owners over the age of 50 say their pet gives them a sense of purpose. 70% said that pets help them connect with others, while 63% said their pets reduce their stress levels.1
So, when a move to an assisted living facility becomes necessary, one of the most common and heartfelt questions is: Can I bring my pet with me?
The good news is that many senior living communities recognize the value of pet companionship and have established pet-friendly policies to support residents and their furry friends. However, there are some important considerations, guidelines, and variations between facilities that you should understand before deciding to bring your pet to stay with you at a senior home.
Why Pets Matter in Assisted Living
The transition to assisted living is a major life change. But this change can go a lot smoother if one’s pets are allowed to be part of that transition. Pets provide companionship and help foster emotional and physical well-being in tangible ways.
Emotional and Mental Health Benefits
Pets reduce loneliness, which is a hidden concern for older adults. The act of petting a dog or cat has been shown to release serotonin and oxytocin, hormones that reduce stress and enhance feelings of happiness. For seniors facing anxiety, depression, or the loss of a spouse, a pet’s steady companionship can be incredibly grounding.
Structure and Routine
Pets provide a natural daily routine that includes feeding, walking, and grooming, offering a sense of responsibility. This kind of structure can be especially beneficial for residents dealing with cognitive decline or depression, as it encourages consistent activity and interaction.
Social Connection
Pets also act as social icebreakers. Residents who walk dogs often strike up conversations with other pet owners or animal lovers in the community. In many assisted living environments, pets foster a sense of companionship and joyfullness and can even spark new friendships.
Physical Health Benefits
Walking a dog or playing with a cat can encourage light exercise, which helps residents stay physically active. Studies show that seniors with pets tend to have lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and fewer visits to the doctor.2
Are Pets Allowed? It Depends on the Facility
While there is a growing trend toward pet-friendly assisted living, policies can differ significantly from one facility to another. Some communities openly welcome animals with few restrictions, while others may only allow therapy pets or have strict guidelines.
Common Factors That Influence Pet Policies:
- Type of Pet: Most facilities are open to common household pets like cats, small to medium dogs, birds, or fish. However, exotic or high-maintenance animals are typically prohibited.
- Size and Breed: Larger pets or certain breeds (especially those considered aggressive) may be restricted. Even in pet-friendly communities, dogs over a certain weight may not be allowed.
- Resident’s Health and Ability: The facility may require that residents are physically and cognitively able to care for their pets without relying heavily on staff assistance. This ensures the pet’s welfare and the resident’s safety.
- Behavior and Temperament: Pets must be well-behaved and not aggressive toward staff or other residents. Excessive barking, scratching, or other disruptive behaviors can lead to the revocation of pet privileges.
- Vaccination and Health Records: Up-to-date vaccines and proof of regular veterinary care are almost always required. This helps prevent the spread of illness in a communal setting.
- Financial Responsibility: Some communities may charge a non-refundable pet fee or require a refundable pet deposit to cover potential damages or extra cleaning.
- Outdoor spacing: With dogs being the most popular pet per the University of Michigan study, facilities but have an area for the dogs to go on short walks and to go potty.
Because each assisted living facility has its own set of rules, it’s important for prospective residents and families to ask detailed questions and get clarity on what’s allowed before making a move.
What Types of Pets Are Typically Allowed?
Assisted living facilities aim to strike a balance between honoring the resident’s bond with their pet and maintaining a safe, clean, and peaceful environment for everyone. For that reason, communities tend to limit pets to those that are manageable and safe for communal living.
Most Commonly Allowed Pets:
- Dogs: Small to medium-sized breeds are generally preferred, especially those known for calm temperaments. Breeds like Shih Tzus, Pugs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Poodles are often ideal because they’re affectionate, quiet, and easy to manage indoors.
- Cats: Cats are especially well-suited to assisted living due to their independence. They typically require less space and maintenance, and indoor cats pose minimal risk to the community.
- Birds: Quiet birds such as canaries, finches, and parakeets may be allowed. Loud or exotic birds like parrots are typically discouraged due to noise and specialized care needs.
- Fish: Small aquariums with low-maintenance fish are often welcomed. They provide a calming visual presence and are easy to care for, which can be beneficial for residents with limited mobility.
- Other Small Animals: In some communities, caged pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits might be permitted, depending on the facility’s policy and the resident’s ability to care for them.
Pets That Are Usually Not Allowed:
- Reptiles and amphibians (due to hygiene and safety concerns)
- Exotic animals (like ferrets or monkeys)
- Aggressive or high-energy dog breeds
- Uncaged animals that pose a safety risk
Alternatives for Residents Who Can’t Bring Pets
If a resident is unable to bring their pet due to care needs, allergies, or facility rules, there are still ways to enjoy the benefits of animal companionship:
- On-site pet therapy programs: Many assisted living communities—including Frank Residences—host regular visits from therapy dogs and other trained animals.
- Community pets: Some facilities have a community pet, such as a friendly cat or dog, that residents can interact with on a regular basis
- Virtual pet visits or robotic pets: For residents with advanced memory care needs, animatronic pets or video calls with family pets can be surprisingly soothing.
- Volunteer opportunities at local shelters: Some communities partner with nearby animal shelters to allow residents to volunteer or participate in foster programs.
Questions to Ask When Touring a Pet-Friendly Assisted Living Facility
If bringing a pet is a priority, be sure to ask the following when evaluating potential communities:
- What types of pets are allowed?
- Are there size or breed restrictions?
- Is there a pet fee or deposit?
- What happens if my health changes and I can’t care for my pet?
- Are pets allowed in common areas?
- Are there designated outdoor spaces for walking dogs?
Being clear on the policy can help ensure a smooth and satisfying transition—for both the resident and their pet.
Pet Guidelines at Frank Residences
Frank Residences is a pet-friendly assisted living community because we understand the powerful connection between seniors and their pets. We evaluate pet requests on a case-by-case basis, working closely with residents and their families to ensure the safety and comfort of both the pet and the broader community. We’re committed to creating a home where pets and their owners can continue sharing life’s joys together.
Our pet policy includes:
- Pet size and breed restrictions: Typically, small to medium-sized pets are welcome. Certain aggressive breeds may be restricted for safety reasons.
- Vaccination and health documentation: All pets must be up-to-date on vaccinations and in good health.
- Resident responsibility: Residents must be physically and mentally capable of caring for their pets independently or with family support.
- Pet behavior: Pets must be house-trained, well-socialized, and not pose a nuisance (e.g., excessive barking or aggression).
- Security deposit or pet fee: A pet deposit or monthly pet fee may apply for cleaning and maintenance.
- Emergency plans: Residents should have a backup care plan for their pet in case of illness, hospitalization, or extended absence.
Pets offer immeasurable joy, comfort, and companionship, especially for older adults transitioning into assisted living. Fortunately, many facilities embrace this bond and provide supportive environments for residents and their beloved animals.
Sources
1. University of Michigan Medical School “Pets can help older adults’ health and well being, but may strain budgets too“
2. WebMD, “How Pets Can Improve Your Health“